MX2008014705A - System and method for communicating power system information through a radio frequency device. - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for communicating information between a detection device and a wireless device is provided. The system generally includes a detection device adapted to monitor a condition related to a power system. A radio interface unit is in communication with the detection device via a communication member. A wireless device is further provided which is in radio communication with the radio interface unit such that the detection device communicates information to the wireless device through a radio interface unit. The system's components are further adapted to endure harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to water).

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING ENERGY SYSTEM INFORMATION THROUGH A RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE CROSS REFERENCE WITH RELATED REQUESTS This application claims the benefit under US Code 35. § 119 (e) of the Provisional Application of the United States entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING INFORMATION OF THE ENERGY SYSTEM THROUGH A RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE", presented on May 19, 2006, with the serial number 60 / 801,757 in the name of Edmund O. Schweitzer, III, Mark J. Bosold, Douglas A. Park, Laurence Virgil Feight, and Adam Thomas Belote, as inventors, whose full description is included as a reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates in general to a system and method for communicating information of the energy system, and more particularly, to a system and method for communicating information of the energy system through a radiofrequency device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE Power transmission and distribution systems may include protection, monitoring, and power system control devices such as sensors, protective relays, faulty circuit indicators, and the like. Throughout this specification, the term "energy system device" shall include any device for protection, monitoring, or control of the energy system. Detection devices are used in the power systems industry to monitor certain areas and conditions in the power system. Some examples of detection devices include: fault circuit indicators (FCIs); water sensors, electric field high voltage, specific gravity, light, and sound; gas sensors such as CO, C02, S0X, N0X, Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOs), Fuels, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germanium, Hydrogen, Chloride hydrogen, Hydrogen cyanide, Hydrogen fluoride, Hydrogen selenide, Hydrogen sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, and the like; Pressure sensors to detect, for example, pressure in a gas pipe, water pipe, waste pipe, oil pipe, and the like; thermometers; electromagnetic radiation sensors; radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate material sensors; liquid phase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br ", Ca2 +, Cl", CN ", Cu2 +, F", I ", K +, Na +, NH4 +, NO3", Pb2 +, S "(AG +), conductivity sensors , and the like, radio wave sensors, electrical sensors such as low voltage sensors, overvoltage sensors, undercurrent sensors, overcurrent sensors, frequency sensors and the like, power factor alarms, demand overload indicators, sensors that detect the presence of primary system voltage, sensors that determine if a sealed subsurface fuse has operated by detecting voltage on each side of the fuse element with loss of load current, sensors that detect the position of opening or closing a switch sub-surface, voltage sensors that monitor the status of lead-acid batteries used to start the motor controller or operators for subsurface switches, power quality sensors that detect power the voltage and drops of the primary voltage along the distribution system, and other sensors that detect the issues of power quality and send a state of alarm. Fault circuit indicators (FCIs) they have an essential role in the detection and indication of faults and locations of faulty conductors to reduce the duration of power outages and improve the reliability of power systems throughout the world. Electrical service companies rely on faulty circuit indicators to help their employees locate faulty drivers quickly. Most circuit indicators with conventional faults use a mechanical target or a light emitting diode (LED) to provide a visual indication of a faulty conductor. Visually scanning circuit indicators with faults located in a site, an electric public service team can locate a fault quickly. Industry statistics indicate that fault circuit indicators reduce fault location time by 50% - 60% versus the use of manual techniques, such as the "reject and section" method. However, electric utilities still spend large amounts of time and money determining the locations of faults in their networks. Recent progress is the use of radio frequency ("RF") technology within fault circuit indication systems. In a prior art system, each fault circuit indicator communicates with a radio interface unit that communicates the occurrence of a failure to an external receiver. The radio interface unit is often located near an ICF within an underground vault, which is susceptible to external elements. For example, frequently the vaults can be filled with water, thus exposing the radio interface unit located there. In another example, for overload FCI systems, the radio interface units are also exposed to the external elements, since they are located close to the overload FCI device. Also, an object of the present invention is to provide a system for communicating the information of the energy system through a radiofrequency device that can withstand the rigorous external elements. It has been found that prior art circuit fault indicating systems are insufficient in their data reporting as well. In a prior art system, a wireless device is used to monitor radiosignals of circuit indicators with RF-equipped faults that are connected to a radio interface unit. Using a wireless device, staff can locate a fault and determine when the failure has been properly eliminated by monitoring the device's display wireless However, conventional wireless devices do not provide indication as to whether a particular fault circuit indicator is actually connected to the radio interface unit. Furthermore, the prior art devices do not show the status of a plurality or multiple groups of circuit indicators with faults simultaneously. The prior art systems also do not provide the ability to view detection devices or sensors to communicate other conditions related to the power system. Therefore, an object of this invention is to provide a user interface for a wireless device that simultaneously displays the status of multiple groups of circuit indicators with monitored faults. Another object of this invention is to provide an indication on a wireless device of whether a faulty circuit indicator is connected to a remote monitoring device, such as a radio interface unit. Still another object of the present invention is to provide data for other conditions related to the power system in a wireless device.

THE INVENTION A system is provided for communicating information between a detection device and a wireless device, which is adapted to withstand the harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to water). The system generally includes a detection device adapted to monitor a condition related to an energy system. A radio interface unit is in communication with the detection device by means of a communication member. In addition, a wireless device is provided that is in radio communication with the radio interface unit, so that the detection device communicates the information to the wireless device through a radio interface unit. In one embodiment, the detection device is a device of the power system (for example, a faulty circuit indicator). In another embodiment, the communication member or the radio interface unit is substantially self-contained. In yet another embodiment, the communication member may be adapted to communicate the information of the power system to the radio interface unit, without a mechanical or electrical connection between them. In yet another embodiment, the detection device includes one selected from the list consisting of devices for detecting: CO, C02, S0X, N0X, Ammonia., Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds, Diborane, Ethylene oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germanium, Hydrogen, Hydrogen chloride, Hydrogen cyanide, Hydrogen fluoride, Hydrogen selenide, Hydrogen sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, pressure, temperature , electromagnetic radiation, atomic radiation, smoke, particulate matter, pH, turbidity, Br ", Ca2 +, Cl", CN ~ Cu2 +, F ~, I ", K +, Na +, NH4 +, NO3", Pb2 +, S "(AG +) , conductivity, overvoltage, low voltage, overcurrent, low current, frequency, water, high voltage electric field, specific gravity, light and sound.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself, and the manner in which it can be produced and used, can be better understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings which constitute a part of this, where similar reference numbers refer to similar parts in all views and in which: Figure 1 illustrates a system view of a faulty circuit indicator that monitors the system according to an aspect of the present invention. Figure 2A illustrates a wireless device communicating with eight radio interface units, each of which is connected to four groups of faulty circuit indicators according to one aspect of the present invention. Figure 2B illustrates the subterranean vault 200e of Figure 2A. Figure 3 illustrates a circuit diagram of the radio interface unit of Figure 1 according to an aspect of the present invention. Figures 4A and 4B illustrate an example of the housing of a radio interface unit according to an aspect of the present invention. Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a cross sectional view of one embodiment of the system of the present invention showing the coupling of the communication member and the interface. Figures 5C and 5D illustrate a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the present system invention showing the coupling of the communication member and the interface. Figure 6 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the system of the present invention illustrating the interaction between the communication member and the interface. Figure 7 is a circuit diagram showing the magnetic field interference with the communication member and the interface. Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the system of the present invention showing compensation for magnetic field interference implementing a differential conductive coil configuration. Figure 9 illustrates an example of the housing of a radio interface unit in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figures 10A and 10B illustrate a cross sectional view of one embodiment of the system of the present invention showing the coupling of the communication member and the interface implementing a differential conductive coil configuration. Figures 10C and 10D illustrate a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the system of the present invention showing the coupling of the member of communication and the interface implementing a differential conductive coil configuration. Figure 11 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the system of the present invention illustrating the interaction between the communication member and the interface implementing a parallel conductive coil configuration. Figure 12 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the system of the present invention illustrating the interaction between the communication member and the interface implementing a serial coil configuration. Figure 13 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the system of the present invention illustrating the interaction between the communication member and the interface implementing a circuit to prevent false blocking of call flows. Figures 14A-14C are graphical representations describing the progression of a call pulse exiting the detection circuit of Figure 12 and the suppression of false blocking caused by the call. Figure 15 illustrates a dial disk having a plurality of magnets in a select array, wherein each array corresponds to a select identification setting.

Figures 16A-16D are circuit diagrams illustrating Various embodiments of systems for identifying an energy system device according to various aspects of the present invention. Figure 17A illustrates the user interface of a wireless device of Figures 2A and 2B used to scan various groups of circuit indicators with faults connected to the separate radio interface units for their state. Figure 17B illustrates the same user interface of the wireless device of Figure 17A after a scanning operation has been completed. Figure 17C illustrates the same user interface of the wireless device of Figure 17A where several circuit indicators with faults coupled to the selected radio interface unit are asserting a fault condition. Figure 17D illustrates the same user interface of the wireless device of Figure 17A where, in addition to the selected radio interface unit, two other radio interface units are coupled to one or more circuit indicators with faults that assert a fault condition. Figure 17E illustrates a schematic for a circuit diagram for a wireless device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 illustrates the format of look and insertion message data in a memory location used to read and modify memory locations within a circuit display monitor with radio frequency failure in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 19 is a flow diagram showing how the present invention can be used to view or modify memory locations within a selected energy system device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 20A illustrates a timing diagram of request commands for a wireless device according to one embodiment, wherein the request commands are transmitted on alternate frequencies during a selected time interval at a selected request time or byte length. Figure 20B illustrates a timing diagram of request commands for a wireless device according to a mode, wherein the request commands are transmitted on alternate frequencies during a selected time interval at a selected request time or byte length. Figure 21 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to one embodiment, which describes the periodic polling cycles of a radio interface unit with listening windows of sounding packets at the alternate frequencies. Figure 22 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to a mode, wherein a request command is detected by a polling pulse at a corresponding frequency. Figure 23 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to one embodiment, wherein the radio interface unit successfully detects a request order message by a polling pulse at the beginning of the listening window as shown in Figure 22 on a corresponding frequency. Figure 24 illustrates a request order message and a response message in a response action according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25 illustrates a change in communication protocol mode to conserve power between a wireless device and a radio interface unit in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 26 describes a modality of a communication protocol algorithm for conserving energy in a radio interface unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 27 illustrates a sectional side view of an embodiment of an interface between an optical communication device and an electronic device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 28 illustrates a perspective view of a radio interface unit in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 29 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an interface between an optical communication device and the radio interface unit of Figure 27 according to an aspect of the present invention. Figure 30 illustrates a perspective view of a radio interface unit according to an aspect of the present invention. Figure 31 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an interface between an optical communication device and the radio interface unit of Figure 30 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Figure 32 illustrates a perspective view of an optical communication device according to a aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED MODALITY Figure 1 illustrates a faulty circuit indicator monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. Each of the circuit indicators with overload failure 207 contains a bidirectional radio that communicates the occurrence of a fault by means of a short range antenna 203 to a local site 110 having an intelligent module 106 installed within range of the radio circuit indicators with fault 207. Then the intelligent module uses the existing wired telephone network (not shown) to communicate the occurrence of failure to a remote site 112. Alternatively, the intelligent module may include a radio interface unit associated therewith for communication with an antenna 114b to communicate the occurrence of faults to a remote site 112 having another long-range RF antenna 114a. The remote site 112 includes a remote smart module 107, which may be connected to another site (not shown) by means of a wired connection 116. When a fault is detected by a faulty circuit indicator, the occurrence is transmitted from the described above to remote site 112, to originate the dispatch of a team to the site of the failure. The user then uses a wireless device 102 (e.g., a portable wireless device). In another embodiment, the wireless device may be located in a vehicle 104 to determine which conductor 205 has the fault. Note that the conductors could also be located in a subterranean vault 200, which can be accessible through a mouth 118. Fault circuit indicators 206 coupled to the underground conductors 210 are wired to a radio interface unit 400 with a short range antenna 202 for communicating with the wireless device 102 or the wireless device installed in a vehicle 104. In one embodiment, the short range antenna 202 may be part of or separated from the radio interface unit. With reference to the drawings and to Figures 2A and 2B in particular, a wireless device 102 communicating 904 with eight circuit indicator installations with fault 200a-200h. As illustrated, each circuit fault indicator installation consists of a radio interface unit, and four separate groups ("paths") of fault circuit indicators, where each group has three circuit indicators with fails, one for each phase. For example, the installation shown at 200e, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, includes four separate groups 206a-d of fault circuit indicators connected to a radio interface unit 400e by means of 220e cables with a short-range antenna 202e separated, connected through cable 208e. The radio interface unit 400e can include a particular setting such that it can differentiate from other radio interface units. For example, this identification setting may be in the form of an identification setting (e.g., serial number), whereby each particular radio interface unit has a particular designation (e.g., a particular serial number). In another embodiment, the identification setting may be in the form of an address setting (e.g., a media access control (MAC) address). In yet another embodiment, in order to ensure adequate differentiation between a plurality of units, each radio interface unit may include both a designation setting and an address setting. For example, radio interface unit 400b and radio interface unit 400e may be associated with a particular address (e.g., address 5). In order to differentiate between these interface units radio 400b and 400e, each radio interface unit 400b and 400e is given a particular designation setting (e.g., particular serial numbers). From this moao, the radio interface units can be aerated. Each fault circuit indicator within these separate groups 206a-d can be used to monitor the various phases (e.g., commonly referred to as phases A, B, C) associated therewith. For example, each of the fault circuit indicators associated with the path 206a can be used to monitor the three phases associated with them. Through this system, the installation 200e of the faulty circuit indicators 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d can communicate with the wireless device 102. Additionally, the wireless device 102 can be alternatively adapted to communicate with the wireless units. radio interface associated with circuit indicators with overload failure as illustrated in Figure 1. In yet another embodiment, the wireless device may be in the form of a personal digital assistant (PDA) with a wireless interface, a laptop computer or a laptop with a wireless interface, etc. and optionally it may be mounted on a service vehicle.

Again with reference to Figure 1, various components of the faulty circuit indicator monitoring system may be located in a subterranean vault 200 and only accessible through a mouth 118. As previously reported, the underground vault 200 is frequently susceptible to external elements and even to floods. Therefore, its content is also susceptible to external elements such as water. Likewise, FCI overload systems also include electronic devices that are exposed to external elements. Accordingly, it is also desirable that some connections between the electronic devices be wireless and / or waterproof. In addition, it is also desirable that the communication members (e.g., probes or other wireless connection means) and the corresponding detection devices be practically self-contained. For example, it is desirable that any connection between each FCI 206 and the radio interface unit 400 of the previous figures be wireless and waterproof. Also, it is convenient that both communication members (not shown) of the FCI 206 and the radio interface unit 400 are each practically self-contained.

With reference to Figure 4, the radio interface unit 400a includes a housing 402a that is virtually self-contained. The electronic components (not shown) are contained within the housing 402a. The electronic components contained within the housing 402a may additionally be encapsulated using an encapsulation material such as sealing material. The encapsulated material provides a physical barrier around the electronic components. This barrier is malleable, providing increased resistance to shock and vibration. In addition, if the material is properly cured, the barrier will be watertight. An encapsulated material of this type is referred to as a sealing material. The sealing material may include epoxy-based materials, urethane-based materials, silicone-based materials, acrylic-based materials, polyester-based materials, and others. Urethane and silicone-based materials are the most frequently used types in the electronics industry. Each particular type of sealing material has its own strengths and weaknesses. With the exception of the aperture for the antenna 208a, there are generally no openings or openings in the housing 402a. Therefore, the housing 402a is practically self-contained (sealing of the elements). For example, the address switch 414a and the power switch 406a are separate from the housing 402a, because it does not require any mechanical or electrical connection to any electronic component contained within the housing 402a. The housing 402a further defines cavities (e.g., at 304a) to receive the communication members that may be in the form of inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a) in a manner in which they are not exposed to the components contained within the housing 402a to the external environment. The housing 402a may further include a securing member such as a connector outlet 408a, in order to secure the inductor 508a probe within the cavity 304a. Although the inductor coils are illustrated and described herein, it is intended that any communication member that includes an inductor and that produces a magnetic field or communicates information by means of a magnetic field, can be used in place of them. Inductive coil probes (e.g., at 508a) interconnecting the cavities (e.g., at 304a) are coupled to a detection device such as an ICF or described with respect to Figure 1. Induction coil probes ( for example, in 508a) also They are practically self-contained. Inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a) communicate wirelessly with the radio interface unit 400a via cavities (e.g., 304a) in the manner described below. A particular advantage of having inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a) that interconnect the cavities (e.g., at 304a) without a wired or electrical connection, is that the system is closer to being intrinsically safe. Because the so-called waterproof connections may require electrical and mechanical connection between the two fault devices after some time, the electrical connection can be exposed, and face a safety risk. Figures 5A and 5B illustrate one embodiment of the hardware arrangement for the circuitry described with respect to Figure 3 having an interface between an inductor coil probe 508b and a radio interface device 400b. Various electronic components are contained within the housing 402b of the radio interface unit 400b. The electronic components are further encapsulated by an encapsulating material 514b such as a sealing material. The housing 402b further defines a plurality of cavities (e.g., at 304b) to receive the coil probes inducing (e.g., at 508b) in a manner in which it is not exposed to the electronic components contained within the housing 402b to the external environment. A printed circuit board 520b is also provided which includes a plurality of magnetic field sensors such as Hall effect sensors (e.g., at 320b) and a printed circuit board 502b that includes a plurality of inductors (e.g., at 420b). ) implemented in this one. In this embodiment, the printed circuit boards 520b and 502b are separate and distinct. Figures 5C and 5D are similar to Figures 5A and 5B with the exception that only one circuit board 520c is implemented and the inductors are in the form of wound inductors 420c in the embodiments of Figures 5C and 5D. During the operation of each of the modes illustrated in Figures 5A-5D, the interface between the inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508b, c) and the radio interface unit 400b, c is as follows. Inductive coil probes (e.g., at 508b, c) may be inserted into the cavities (e.g., at 304b, c). For example, as shown in Figures 5B and 5D, a magnet 902b, c is located at the end of the inductor coil probe 508b, c. A corresponding magnetic field sensor (for example, a Hall effect sensor) 302b, c located on the circuit board printed 502b, 520c detects the presence of a magnetic field from the magnet 902b, c after the insertion of the inductor 508b, c into the cavity 304b, c. The magnetic field sensor 302b, c produces a signal to the microprocessor, thereby indicating the presence of an inductor coil probe 508b, c. A spacer 620 b, c is also provided in order to prevent the magnet 902b, c from affecting the inductor 604b, c contained within the inductor 508b, c. Although a Hall effect sensor is described herein, other suitable magnetic field sensors such as a foil switch and the like can also be implemented. The inductor coil probes 508b, c interconnecting with the cavities 304b, c are coupled to a detection device such as an ICF as described in Figure 1. The inductor coil probe 508b, c includes an inductor coil 604b, cy It is also practically self-contained. The inductor coils 508b, c communicate wirelessly with the radio interface unit 400b, c via the cavities 304b, c by magnetic field or electromagnetic field induction (also referred to as "magnetic field induction") in the manner described immediately. As illustrated in Figure 6, during the operation, a cut-off current signal IT is sent from a detection device, such as an FCI 206, when a conductor (eg, 210 of Figure 1) related thereto exceeds a selected current threshold (eg, after of an occurrence of a ground fault). The cut current signal IT induces a magnetic field 540 in the inductor coil Ll of the inductor coil 508d. The magnetic field 540 of the cutting current IT induces an IT current in the inductor coil 420d of the radio interface unit. This induced current further induces a voltage Vi through the load 538d. The information regarding the voltage Vi increased through the load 538d can be transmitted from the radio interface unit to a wireless portable unit to indicate a cut signal by an FCI. Alternatively, an IR reset current signal may be sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (eg, 210 of FIG. 1) is restored from a previously cut condition. In order to distinguish between the IR reset current signal and the IT cut current signal / these signals can be sent or set in opposite directions. The IR reset current signal induces a magnetic field 540 in the inductor coil Ll of the 508d inductor coil probes. The magnetic field 540 from the IR reset current induces a current ?? in the inductor coil 420d of the radio interface unit. This induced current further induces a voltage Vi through the load 538d. The information regarding the decreased voltage Vi (as opposed to an increased voltage Vx for a cut signal) through the load 538d can be transmitted from the wireless interface unit to the wireless portable unit to indicate a reset signal by an FCI . However, communication members that have a single probe as described in the previous figures are often susceptible to magnetic or electromagnetic field interference from external sources. For example, as illustrated in Figure 7, an interference magnetic field 532 can be produced by an adjacent energy line 534 which carries high current 530. The interference magnetic field 532 can induce a current in the inductor coil 420e of the radio interface unit. This induced current further induces a voltage Vi through the load 538e, and thereby produces a false cut or reset signal. As illustrated in Figure 8, the field Magnetic interference 532 can be canceled using a differential inductor coil configuration. In this arrangement, the communication member includes two inductor coils 420f and 420g which are connected in opposite directions. The interference magnetic field 532 induces a current Ii in the inductor 420f and a current I2 in the inductor 420g of the radio interface unit. The currents Ii and I2 are induced in opposite directions and each induces a voltage Vx in polarity opposite to another through the load 538f. Accordingly, this arrangement provides a net induced voltage of 0, thereby compensating for interference from a magnetic field and thereby false negative signals. With reference to Figure 9, a radio interface unit 400h is provided to accommodate a differential inductor coil probe, in order to cancel the magnetic interference fields. The substantially self-contained construction of the housing 400h can be generally similar to the housing 402h described with respect to Figure 4. Therefore, the housing 402h further defines cavities (eg, at 304h) to receive differential inductor probes (e.g. at 609) having double tips in a manner in which they do not expose the electronic components contained within the housing 402h to the external environment In another embodiment, the radio interface unit 400a may be provided to accommodate a differential inductor coil in order to cancel magnetic interference fields. This embodiment is similar to that described above in conjunction with Figure 9, except that each outlet 408a includes only a single cavity 304a to accept the single inductor coil 508a. Instead of having a differential inductor coil probe for each probe 508a, there is a simple differential inductor coil to cancel the magnetic interference fields. Differential inducing coil probes (e.g., eri 609) interconnecting the cavities (e.g., at 304h) are coupled to a detection device such as an ICF as described with respect to Figure 1. The inductor coil probe 609 differential is also practically self-contained. Differential inductor coils (e.g., at 609) communicate wirelessly with the radio interface unit 400h via cavities (e.g., 304h) in the manner described below. Figures 10A and 10B illustrate one embodiment of the hardware arrangement for the circuitry described with respect to Figure 8 having an interface between the Differential inductor coil probe and cavity. Within the housing 402i are contained various electronic components of the radio interface unit 400i. The electronic components are further encapsulated by an encapsulating material 514i such as a sealing material. The housing 402i further defines a plurality of cavities (e.g., at 304i) to receive differential inductor coils (e.g., at 609i) in a manner in which they do not expose the electronic components contained within the housing 402i to the external environment. . A printed circuit board 502i is also provided which includes a plurality of magnetic field sensors such as Hall effect sensors (e.g., at 302i) and a plurality of inductors (e.g., at 420i) implemented therein. Figures 10C and 10D are similar to Figures 10A and 10B with the exception that the inductors 506k of Figure 10C and 10D are in the form of winding inductors. During the operation of each of the modes illustrated in Figures 10A-D, the interface between the differential inductive coil probes 609i, k and the radio interface unit 400i, k is as follows. The differential inductor coils 609i, k can be inserted into the cavities 304i, k. For example, as shown in Figures 9B and 9D, a magnet 902i, k is located between the tips of the differential inductor coils 609i, k. A corresponding magnetic field sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor 302i, k) located on the printed circuit board 502i, > k detects the presence of a magnetic field from the magnet 902i, k after the insertion of the differential inductor coil 609i, k in the cavity 304i, k. The Hall effect sensor 302i, k produces a signal to the microprocessor, thus indicating the presence of a differential inductor 609i, k probe. Although a Hall effect sensor is described herein, other suitable elements may be implemented (e.g., a reed switch). The differential inductor coils 609i, k interconnecting the cavities 304i, k are coupled to a detection device such as an FCI as described with respect to Figure 1. The differential inductor coil 609i, k includes an inductor coil 604i, k at each point and it is also practically self-contained. The differential inductor coils 609i, k communicate wirelessly with the radio interface unit 400i, k by means of the cavities (for example, 304i, k) by magnetic field induction in the manner described below.

Figure 11 illustrates a mode implementing the differential coil configuration of Figure 8. In this arrangement, the differential inductive coil probe 609a is in a parallel inductor coil configuration. During operation, two inductor coils 420a and 420b are connected in parallel in opposite directions. The interference magnetic field (not shown) induces a current Ii in the inductor 420a and a current? 2 in the inductor coil 420b of the radio interface unit. The currents Ii and I2 are induced in opposite directions and each induces a voltage Vi in polarity opposite to the other through the load 538, thus canceling the respective voltages. Accordingly, this arrangement provides a net induced voltage of 0, thereby compensating for interference from a magnetic field and false negative signals. The arrangement of Figure 11, in effect, forms a differential pulse transformer configuration 558a, where short-duration, high-energy pulses are transmitted with low distortions. During operation, a cut-off current signal IT is sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 when a conductor (eg, 210 of Figure 1) related to it exceeds a selected current threshold (for example, 210). example, after an occurrence of a ground fault) by means of the cable 220 in the differential inductor coil 609a with the series resistors R. The inductor coils Ll and L2 are connected in parallel to generate magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The cut current signal IT induces magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540a and 540b from the cut-off current IT induce the currents Ii and I2 in the inductor coils 420a and 420b of the radio interface unit. The induced currents Ii and I2 then induce a differential voltage? through load 538. Information regarding a positive differential voltage ?? through load 538 it can be transmitted from the radio interface to the wireless portable unit to indicate a cut signal by an FCI. Alternatively, an IR reset current signal may be sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (eg, 210 of FIG. 1) is restored from a previously cut condition. In order to distinguish between the IR reset current signal and the IT cut current signal, these signals can be sent or set in opposite directions. The IR reset current signal induces the magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540a and 540b from the IR reset current induce the currents Ii and I2 in the inductor coils 420a and 420b of the radio interface unit. The induced currents Ii and I2 then induce a differential voltage? through load 538. Information regarding a negative differential voltage ?? through load 538 it can be transmitted from the radio interface unit to the wireless portable unit to indicate a reset signal by an FCI. In another embodiment, Figure 12 illustrates another embodiment that implements the differential coil configuration of Figure 8. In this arrangement, the differential inductor coil 609c is in a series inductor coil configuration. During operation, two inductor coils 420a and 420b are connected in series in opposite directions. The interference magnetic field (not shown) induces a current Ii in the inductor 420a and a current I2 in the inductor 420b of the radio interface unit. The currents Ii and I2 are induced in opposite directions and each induces a voltage Vi in polarity opposite to the other through the load 538, thus canceling the respective voltages. Therefore, this arrangement provides a net induced voltage of 0, thereby compensating interference from a magnetic field and false negative signals. The arrangement of Figure 12, in effect, forms a differential pulse transformer configuration 558a, over which short duration, high energy pulses are transmitted with low distortions. Because the inductor coils Ll and L2 are connected in series, their design values are generally lower than the parallel arrangement of Figure 11 due to the additive or period inductance. During operation, a cut-off current signal IT is sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 when a conductor (eg, 210 of Figure 1) related thereto exceeds a selected current threshold (eg, after of an occurrence of a ground fault) by means of the wire 220 in the differential inductor coil 609a with the R series damping call resistors. The inductor coils Ll and L2 are connected in series to generate magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The cut current signal IT induces the magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540a and 540b from the cut-off current IT induce the currents Ii and I2 in the inductor coils 420a and 420b of the power unit. radio interface. The induced currents Ii and I2 then induce a differential voltage? through load 538. Information regarding a positive differential voltage ?? through load 538 it can be transmitted from the radio interface unit to the wireless portable unit to indicate a cut signal by an FCI. Alternatively, an IR reset current signal may be sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (eg, 210 of FIG. 1) is restored from a previously cut condition. In order to distinguish between the IR reset current signal and the IT cut current signal (these signals can be sent or set in opposite directions.) The IR reset current signal induces the magnetic fields 540a and 540b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540a and 540b from the IR current induce the currents Ii and I2 in the inductor coils 420a and 420b of the radio interface unit.The induced currents and I2 then induce a differential voltage through the load 538. Information regarding a negative differential voltage through load 538 can be transmitted from the radio interface unit to the portable unit wireless to indicate a reset signal by an FCI. Figure 13 illustrates another embodiment that implements the differential coil configuration of Figure 8. In this arrangement, an IT cut-off current or an IR reset current signal from the differential inductor coil 609a generates equal and equal magnetic fields. Opposites 540a and 540b. The magnetic fields 540a and 540b induce the currents Ii and I2 in the radio interface unit. A sensing circuit 559a with symmetrical network branches having inputs 580a and 580b coupled to inductor coils 420a and 420b is also provided. The symmetrical ends 582a and 582b are further coupled to a bistable locking scale G1 / G2 and to a microcontroller 310. Each symmetrical network branch includes a diode in series; an amplitude control element such as a bypass diode or a bypass resistor; a low pass filter; and a charging circuit (or load holding circuit). In one embodiment of the detection circuit 559a, the bypass diodes DI and D3 are the amplitude control elements for the input pulse, while the low pass filter and the load circuit are formed by a resistor and capacitor network . More specifically, the direction of the peak of voltage / current from an induced pulse, is detected with four diodes (DI, D2, D3 and D4) at inputs 580a and 580b, respectively. A positive pulse U3 in Figure 13 (in D3 and D4) is routed through resistor R4 to capacitor C2, storing the charge. The resistor R5 or R2 allows the capacitor to discharge the positive pulse U3 in a controlled manner, preventing the false blocking of the FCI call currents and the probe circuits (for example, Ll, L2 and R). A negative pulse Ul in Figure 13 is conducted through the diode DI, with the diode D2 blocking the obtaining of any residual voltage in the capacitor Cl by means of fixation in the diode DI and rectification of reverse polarization in the diode D2. The DI diode sets the negative pulse at approximately -0.5 V to -0.8 V, depending on the type of diode. The R4 / C2 (and Rl / Cl) components create a low pass filter, which prevents high frequency peaks that change the logic state of the G1 / G2 flip flops (NOM and gate stabilities). Positive pulse U3 generates a current, through R4, that charges capacitor C2. Each of the resistors R6 and R3 prevents the blocking of the respective gates G2 and Gl CMOS, and allows the loading of the capacitors Cl and C to reach a higher voltage above the gates of internal CMOS setting the voltage. Loading and retention of the load are important to prevent the addition of unwanted scale due to the call in the cut / reset pulses. In this arrangement, the gates TAMPOCO Gl and G2 are also connected in a bistable R-S configuration, with active high inputs. The pulse U4 of Figure 13 is applied to input 587 of gate G2 of the scale. If the scale sends logic 0 to Gl at output 587, before the cutoff pulse, the pulse changes the logic state of line 550 from logic 0 to logic 1. The status of the scale is evaluated with a microprocessor 310 at the I / O interface 552. The microprocessor 310 such as a Texas Instruments MSP430 family is suitable for this application where a standard program can be written. In the ignition, the scale G1 / G2 establishes a logic level of random output in the line 550. The resistor R7, in series with the output Gl, allows the restoration of the scale G1 / G2 with the microprocessor 310. It can also be provided a program for driving the microprocessor 310, which changes the I / O 552 interface from input to output, and establishing the input of line 550 with a logic 0. If at the same time, the gate Gl sends logic 1, the resistor R7 allows the voltage at input 587 of gate G2 to drop by below the threshold level of logic 0, causing the scale G1 / G2 to change to the output Gl to logic 0. This circuit arrangement allows the reuse of the same line 550 to read logic data from the scale G1 / G2 and resetting scale G1 / G2, with a 550 line input with simple copper traces and a simple reset resistor R7. The G1 / G2 gates that are NOT scales can also create a CMOS memory position, thus allowing the blocking and storage of logical values for months and years. CMOS inherently uses the relatively small current supply, thus extending the life time of a supply battery. A call pulse from a cut pulse or a reset pulse can often cause false blockage. The arrangement of Figure 13 provides a modality that suppresses such false blocking. Figures 14A-14C describe the progression of a call pulse exiting the detection circuit of Figure 13 and the suppression of the false blockage caused by the call. The arrangement of Figure 13 is designed to accept a cut / reset pulse from several FCI sensors and differential inductor coils. Such hardware diversification can give as a result a cutoff or reset pulse with multiple call portions such as 560b and 564a and 566b in the induced pulse Ul, and 560c, 564c and 566c in the induced pulse U3 shown in Figures 14Ai and 14Aii. In effect, the induced pulses Ul and U3 generated by the differential pulse transformer 558a at both ends of the pair of coils (for example, inductor coils 420a and 420b) will be of similar amplitude and inverted polarity in the absence of bypass diodes DI and D3 and the series diodes D2 and D4 (shown as dotted lines). The bypass diodes DI and D3 can be used to set a negative pulse, while the series diodes D2 and D4 can be used to rectify and pass a positive pulse in forward bias. The diode pairs Di and D3 clamp and rectify positive and negative pulse portions 560a, 564a and 566a on an inverted polarity induced pulse Ul. The pairs of diodes D3 and D4 rectify and fix the positive and negative pulse portions 560c, 564b and 566c, respectively, in an induced pulse of positive polarity U3. Figure 14Bi describes the pulse voltage U2 through the capacitor Cl, induced by a call pulse Ul. If the pulse voltage U2 arrives above the threshold 570 of logic 1, a failed blockage of the scale G1 / G2 can result . He put U3 induced by positive polarity The desired one described in Figure 14Aii with a higher amplitude generates the filtered pulse U4 through capacitor C2 as shown in Figure 14Bii, which in turn generates logic 1 for gate G2. The pulse load U4 through capacitor C2 is maintained longer than the last load of the call station U2 through Cl as shown in Figure 14Bi. Figure 14c superimposes the pulses U2 and U4 presented to the scale G1 / G2 to illustrate the concept that an extended logic level 1 of pulse U4 presented to gate G2 lasts longer than a false logic 1 caused by the call pulse U2 presented in gate G, thus preserving a suitable logic block by the scale G1 / G2. The time constant of C2 / R5 / R6 (or C1 / R2 / R3) allows the rejection of the majority of the false call voltage of pulse U2 by a voltage margin 572, and a time margin of 574, depending on the differences of pulse amplitude U4 and U2 set at the logic level in G1 / G2. The pair of diodes and the RC network in the differential array allows the error-free detection of the desired induced pulse U4 in the presence of a "call" signal U2 on the opposite side of the differential pulse transformer 558. The same principle of operation if the induced pulses Ul and U3 are of reverse polarity, except that the pulses of Figures 14a to 14c are they will interpose between Ul and U3, and between U2 and U4. The teachings described in relation to Figures 13 and 14 can be further implemented by a simple probe differential coil configuration without deviating from the spirit of the present invention. Further, according to the present invention, it is contemplated that any type of detection device having the ability to send a positive and a negative signal may be used in conjunction with or in place of the radio interface unit. Some examples of detection devices (other than an FCI) that may be used include: water sensors, high voltage electric field, specific gravity, light, and sound sensors; gas sensors such as CO, CO2, S0X, N0X, Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOs), Fuels, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germanium, Hydrogen, Chloride hydrogen, Hydrogen cyanide, Hydrogen fluoride, Hydrogen selenide, Hydrogen sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, and the like; pressure sensors for detecting, for example, pressure in a gas pipe, water pipe, waste pipe, oil pipe, and the like; thermometers; electromagnetic radiation sensors; radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate material sensors; liquid phase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br ", Ca2 +, Cl", CN "Cu2 +, F ~, I" K +, Na +, NH +, NO3", Pb2 +, S ~ (AG +), conductivity sensors, and similar, radio wave sensors, electrical sensors such as low voltage sensors, overvoltage sensors, undercurrent sensors, overcurrent sensors, frequency sensors and the like, power factor alarms, demand overload indicators, sensors that detect the presence of primary system voltage, sensors that determine whether a sealed subsurface fuse has operated by detecting voltage on each side of the fuse element with loss of load current, sensors that detect the opening or closing position of a subsurface switch; of voltage monitoring the status of lead-acid batteries used to start the motor controller or operators for subsurface switches, power quality sensors that detect increases and drops of the primary voltage along the distribution system, and other sensors that detect the issues of power quality and send a state of alarm. The detection device communicates with the radio interface unit 400 according to any of the embodiments described herein. From In this mode, the monitoring system of the present invention can be used to monitor states or conditions that are detected with any of the detection devices (eg, FCI or other sensors) mentioned above. A further aspect of this invention is that the circuit indicator monitoring system with fault, difference between the different types of detection devices that can be in communication with the radio interface unit 400. The differentiation can be carried out between two types different detection devices that use the permanent magnet (for example, in 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) of the inductor coils (for example, in 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) and the magnetic field sensor (for example, 302b, 302c, 302i, or 302k). The polarity of the permanent magnet (for example, at 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) for a particular type of sensing device can be a polar opposite to the permanent magnet (for example, at 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) for another particular type of detection device. The radio interface unit 400 can then be configured to transmit the status only of a particular type of detection device when interrogated by a specific wireless device 102 (or when the wireless device 102). interrogate using a specific algorithm), and transmit the state of another particular type of detection device when interrogated by another specific wireless device 102 (or when the wireless device 102 interrogates it using another algorithm). For example, the radio interface unit 400 may be mounted on a vault 200 containing electrical conductors for an electrical power installation, and accessing water lines for a water installation. Fault circuit indicators can be used to monitor circuits with faults in the electrical conductors, and can be in communication with the radio interface unit 400 used by the various probe systems described herein. However, inductive coil probes (for example, at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) for fault circuit indicators would be configured such that permanent magnets (for example, at 902b, 902c) , 902i, or 902k) have a common pole (north) facing the magnetic field sensor (for example, 302b, 302c, 302i, or 302k). If the radio interface unit 400 has twelve connector outlets (e.g., 408a, 408h), then all of them can be used by the fault circuit indicators. Magnetic field sensors (for example, 302b, 302c, 302i, or 302k) would detect that all inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) have permanent magnets (e.g., at 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) with a common polarity. The radio interface unit 400 may also be in communication with the inductor coils (e.g., at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) from the detection devices for the water installation. For example, the water installation may want to monitor if the pressure in the water lines exceeds a threshold. The water installation could install such detection devices on the water lines, and have these water pressure sensing devices communicating with the inductor coils (e.g., at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) in communication with the remaining connector plugs (e.g., 408a, 408h) of the radio interface unit 400. Inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) of the water installation would include permanent magnets (for example, at 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) that have a common pole (south) facing the magnetic field sensor (for example, 302b, 302c, 302i, or 302k) . The pole of the permanent magnets (for example, in 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) facing the inductor coils (for example, at 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) of the water installation could be opposite the pole of the permanent magnets (for example, at 902b, 902c, 902i, or 902k) facing the probes of inductor coil (for example, in 508a, 508b, 508c, 609, 609i, or 609k) of the electrical installation. In this way, the radio interface unit 400 could differentiate between detection devices of different facilities and transmit the information related only to the installation that interrogates the radio interface unit 400. The radio interface unit 400e can include an identification facility. particular, in such a way that it can be differentiated from the other radio interface units. For example, this identification facility may be in the form of a designation establishment (e.g., serial number), over which each particular radio interface unit has a particular designation (e.g., a particular serial number). In another embodiment, the identification establishment may be in the form of an address setting (e.g., a medium access control (MAC) address). In yet another embodiment, in order to ensure adequate differentiation between a plurality of units, each interface unit Radio can include both a designation establishment and an address establishment. For example, both the radio interface unit 400b and the radio interface unit 400e may be associated with the particular address (e.g., address 5). In order to differentiate between these radio interface units 400b and 400e, each radio interface unit 400b and 400e has a particular designation setting (e.g., particular serial number). In this way, the radio interface units can be differentiated. Again with reference to the drawings and to Figures 2A and 2B in particular, a wireless device 102 communicates 904 with eight circuit indicator installations with fault 200a-200h. As illustrated, each circuit fault indicator installation consists of a radio interface unit, and four separate groups ("paths") of fault circuit indicators, where each group has three fault circuit indicators, one for each phase. For example, the installation shown at 200e, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, includes four separate groups 206a-d of fault circuit indicators connected to a radio interface unit 400e through the cables 220e with a short antenna. 202e separate reach, connected through of the 208e cable This radio interface unit 400e may include a particular facility such that it can be differentiated from the other radio interface units. For example, this identification facility may be in the form of a designation establishment (e.g., serial number), over which each particular radio interface unit has a particular designation (e.g., a particular serial number). In another embodiment, the identification establishment may be in the form of an address setting (e.g., a media access control (MAC) address). In yet another embodiment, in order to ensure adequate differentiation between a plurality of units, each radio interface unit may include both a designation establishment and an address establishment. For example, both the radio interface unit 400b and the radio interface unit 400e may be associated with a particular address (e.g., address 5). In order to differentiate between these radio interface units 400b and 400e, each radio interface unit 400b and 400e has a particular designation setting (e.g., particular serial numbers). In this way, the interface units radio can be differentiated. Each fault circuit indicator within these separate groups 206a-d can be used to monitor the various phases (e.g., commonly referred to as phases A, B, C) associated therewith. For example, each of the fault circuit indicators associated with path 206a can be used to monitor the three phases associated with them. Through this system, the installation 200e of the fault circuit indicators 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d can communicate with the wireless device 102. In a mode where the identification establishment of each radio interface unit is an establishment of address, the address setting of a radio interface unit 400 can be adjusted by simply dialing the dial disk 414 as illustrated in Figure 4a and 4b. Although this embodiment specifically describes the establishment in the form of an identification establishment and, more particularly, an establishment of management, the establishment to be adjusted may be any establishment (eg, a designation establishment, power establishment, establishment of communication, etc.). In addition, although a dial disc is specifically shown, any actuator it is suitable (for example, a switch with multiple linear positions instead of a dialing disk). The dial disk 414 may also be self-contained. Accordingly, the address dial disk is not mechanically or electrically coupled to any of the internal electronic components contained within the housing 402 of the radio interface unit. This allows the housing 402 of the radio interface unit to be virtually self-contained. As such, the substantially self-contained housing 402 allows the radio interface unit 400 to be submersible and have the ability to withstand harsh environments. This arrangement is an example of a system for adjusting the establishments' of a power system device that uses a magnetically coupled actuator. More specifically, Figure 15 illustrates the address dial disk of Figure 4a and 4b. The address dial disk generally includes a plurality of magnets located in a selected array. By rotating the dial disk 414, the plurality of magnets can be placed in several selected arrays. The selected fixes can correspond to several selected addresses. In the illustrated embodiment, by rotating the address dial disk 414 in the Counterclockwise direction progresses through the various directions in ascending order. Alternatively, the radio interface unit can be configured in such a way that when the address dial disk 414 is rotated in the clockwise direction it progresses through the various directions in ascending order. In one embodiment, the magnetically coupled address dial disk 414 has an initial position at 901 and a circular rotary dial with a plurality of embedded magnets (eg, 902a to 902d). The arrangement of magnets can correspond to the selected addresses. More specifically, when the magnets are coupled to one or more magnetic field sensors such as Hall effect sensors or reed switches 504a, 504b and 504c in positions A, B and C, which detects the selected arrangement of the magnets and provides them with the corresponding selected address. In a. As an embodiment of the present invention, the address dial disk 414 includes four magnets 902a to 902d, which may be coupled to three magnetic field sensors to detect the selected arrangement of the magnets. The Hall effect sensors or reed switches 504a through 504c are connected to a microprocessor 310 (Figures 6a, 6B, 6C, and 6D) within the radio interface unit 400. The microprocessor processes the array of selected magnets and provides a selected address that corresponds to them. The illustrated embodiment has eight adjustable positions indicated in position A as a position pointer 904. The three bits read by Hall effect sensors or reed switches 504a, 504b and 504c represent binary addresses corresponding to the selected radio interface units . For example, magnets such as 902a and 902b coupled to Hall effect sensors or reed switches A and B will form a binary bit of 011. This binary bit provides a specific binary address for the radio interface unit. A binary address table corresponds to the position of the pointer 904 and can be constructed as follows: pointer Hall Hall coupled Direction 1 N / C 000 2 AB 011 3 BC 110 4 A 001 5 AC 101 6 B 010 7 C 100 8 'ABC 111 Few or many addresses can be obtained by using fewer or more permanent magnets and / or fewer or more Hall effect sensors or reed switches in a similar arrangement. In one embodiment, the type of magnetically coupled address dial 414, the magnetic field sensor position pattern and the magnet can also be observed as an image in the mirror or swapped for the same number of directions. As shown in Figure 4A, the radio interface unit 400 may also include a power dial disk 406 to affect the power of the unit. The energy dial disk 406 may include a magnet, which may be adjustable such that power is supplied to the radio interface unit when the magnet is coupled to a switch contained in the housing of the radio interface unit. The power dialing disc 406 may further be coupled to the address setting dial 414 so that when the position of the address setting dial 414 is changed, the power dialing disc 406 will return to the position of reset to turn on the radio interface unit 400. In this way, the previous address setting will not be stored.

In another embodiment, by rotating the power dialing disc 406 to the "ON" position, the radio interface unit 400 may be adapted to perform the following sequence: 1) Measurement of the battery voltage. If the voltage is below a minimum voltage, then the radio interface unit 400 is turned off, otherwise the measured voltage is saved. 2) Perform a complete and instantaneous RAM diagnostic test and record the results in RAM 3) Read the configuration parameters and enter the normal operation. In one embodiment, the address dial disk 414 includes a magnetically coupled address interface that is hermetically sealed against water using sealing material. The magnetically coupled steering interface is operable in an ennment exposed to water such as an outdoor, aerial or underground installation. Figure 16A describes a circuit diagram of a mode of a magnetically coupled address interface. As illustrated in Figure 16A, the address dial disk 414 includes a magnetically coupled address interface 415a or 415b that includes an array of a plurality of magnets 930. When the magnets 930 are coupled to the magnetic field sensors 910, a selected address 918 can be provided. The various addresses 918 depend on the various arrays of the magnets. A microprocessor (or other logic device such as an FPGA, ASIC, or discrete logic) 310 may also be provided to process the selected array of magnets and provide corresponding addresses 918. The microprocessor 310 may further be adapted to provide a power management output control 916 for activating or deactivating the bias circuits 940a or 940b of the magnetic field sensor 910. In one embodiment, the magnetic field sensors 910 are a plurality of Hall effect sensors or a plurality of reed switches. In another embodiment, there is further provided a battery saving environment for the radio interface unit, in which the magnetic field sensors 910 extend momentarily and turn off after the addresses are read. For example, the radio interface unit may be adapted to turn on after activation by a power management control 916 (e.g., the power dial disk of Figure 5) or after receiving an external request order for an external device through of the microprocessor 310. In one embodiment, the polarization circuit 940a includes a power source Vdd, a plurality of connection resistors (not shown in FIG. 8B) and at least one transistor such as a MOSFET (semiconductor field effect transistor). metal oxide) of channel P 914 which supplies the Vhes / Vreed bias voltage to the magnetic field sensor 910. In one embodiment, an I / O power management control 916 in the microprocessor 310 activates or deactivates the bias circuit 940a by controlling the gate voltage of the P-channel MOSFET 914. After an initial ignition or a reset of the ignition, the I / O control 916 activates the bias circuit 940a to polarize the magnetic field sensor 910 for a short period such as about 100 microseconds to about 150 microseconds. The Vhes / Vreed bias voltage is turned off after the addresses 918 are read by the microprocessor 310. In one embodiment, after reading the addresses 918, the 1/0 916 control deactivates the bias circuit 940a indefinitely until the power handling outputs an I / O control 916 to reactivate the bias circuit 940a. The activation or deactivation of the magnetic field sensor 910 can be controlled by a program of factory-preset operation in the microprocessor 310 or after receiving an external request order from an external device. External devices may include a portable terminal, PDA, cell phone or laptop-type main computer, alternatively mounted on a vehicle. When the bias circuit 940a is deactivated, the magnetic field sensor 910 essentially does not consume current, thereby prolonging the life time of the battery. Figure 16B describes another embodiment of a magnetically coupled address interface 415b. As shown in Figure 16B, a bias circuit 940b includes the ground connection to an OSFET of channel N 915, while the bias voltage Vhes / Vreed is connected to Vdd. The biasing circuit is activated or deactivated through gate control of the N-channel MOSFET 915. In some embodiments, the transistors used in the bias circuits 940a or 940b may be bipolar transistors or some suitable switching transistors to carry out activating or deactivating the switching function. Figure 16C describes a mode of a magnetically coupled address interface 415c among a plurality of Hall effect sensors to a microprocessor. In one modality, three are used Hall effect sensors 910a to 910c as magnetic field sensors to detect the respective magnets 930a to 930c. The output of the Hall effect sensors 910a to 910c are open drain and the respective connection resistors Rl to R3 with values ranging from about 10 kOhm to about 100 kOhm connected to the bias voltage Vhes are used to indicate logic levels 1 in the respective addresses 918a to 918c for 1/01 to 1/03 of the microprocessor 310. In the presence of the magnets 930a to 930c, the Hall 910a to 910c sensors will give a logic level 0 to the respective addresses 918 to 918c. In an illustrated embodiment, the bias circuit 940c utilizes a transistor such as a P-channel OSFET 914, a bipolar PNP transistor or any suitable switching transistor (not shown) to activate or deactivate the bias circuit 940c. In an alternative embodiment, the bias circuit 940c uses a transistor such as an N-channel MOSFET 915, a bipolar NPN transistor or any suitable switching transistor (not shown) grounded to COM_GND to activate or deactivate the bias circuit 940c, with the polarization voltage Vhes connected to Vdd in this scheme. An optional R7 discharge resistor can be used, with values of hundreds of kOhms connected to ground COM_GND to discharge some remaining voltages with Hall effect sensors 910a through 910c that are off to prevent the float of address lines 918a through 918c through 1/1 to 1/3 in the microprocessor 310. Figure 16D describes another embodiment of a magnetically coupled address interface 415d between a plurality of reed switches to a microprocessor. In one embodiment, three sheet switches 910d to 910f are used as a magnetic field sensor to detect respective magnets 930d to 930f. The reed switches 910d to 910f are connected to the respective connection resistors R4 to R6. In the absence of a magnet, the connection resistors indicate logic 1 to the address lines 918d to 918f. In the presence of magnets 930d to 930f, reed switches 910d through 910f are closed where the currents are derived to ground, thus indicating logic 0 in the 918d to 918f directions for I / Ol to 1/3 of the microprocessor 310. In a battery saving circuit design mode the Vreed bias voltage can be turned on with on / off control from a 1/0 916 microprocessor, with a higher current buffer 932 or with a channel MOSFET P 914 , a bipolar transistor PNP or any suitable switching transistor (not shown). The choice can be preset at the factory by design. The connection resistors R4 to R6 may be in a range from about 10 kOhm to about 100 kOhm, allowing a relatively weak voltage source to drive three or more resistors and sheet switches. In the previous embodiment shown in Figure 16C, the Hall effect sensors 910a through 910c can not be operated from a microprocessor 310 or from a current buffer 932 as shown in Figure 16D, since relatively high currents are required for they are operated with a P channel, or N-channel MOSFETT or any suitable switching transistor with a suitable circuit connection. In an alternative embodiment, the bias circuit 940d may utilize a N 915 channel MOSFET, a bipolar NPN transistor or any suitable switching transistor (not shown) connected to the GND ground blade switches while the Vreed bias voltage is connected to Vdd. A discharge resistor R8 of values of hundreds of kOhms connected to ground GND can be used to discharge some remaining voltages when all of the leaf switches 910d to 910f are open, preventing the float of the address lines 918d to 918f for 1/01 until 1/03 at microprocessor 310. Figure 17A illustrates an example of a user interface of wireless device 102 that can be used in the systems illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B. The user interface includes a power indicator 1001, such as a green LED, which is illuminated when the wireless device 102 is turned on by means of the power button 1024. In addition, the user interface includes two controls, an acquisition control information that is implemented as a "scan" button 1012, and an identification establishment increment control that is implemented as a "next" button 1010. The "scan" button 1012 causes the wireless device 102 to scan the area adjacent to any radio interface units (e.g., those associated with the installation of faulty circuit indicators of Figures 2A and 2B) that may be present. During scanning, each radio interface unit can be adapted to communicate its identification establishment (eg, address), its status, and the status of some fault circuit indicators that are connected to it. Once a scan is complete, a scan summary is displayed in a direction indicator radio 1006. The radio address indicator 1006 comprises a plurality of status indicators of the radio interface unit. Each LED of the radio address indicator 1006 may correspond to each radio interface unit associated with each of the fault indicator circuit installations 200a-h of Figures 2A and 2B. The radio interface unit status indicators can be implemented using eight tri-color LEDs. Depending on the result of the scanning operation, the LEDs within the radio address indicator 1006 will light in different ways. If a radio interface unit with a particular address is not detected, then the LED of the radio address indicator 1006 with the corresponding address will not be illuminated. On the contrary, for each radio interface unit detected, a corresponding LED will be displayed within the radio address indicator 1006 amber, green or red. A particular LED within the radio address indicator 1006 displays green if none of the fault circuit indicators connected to the particular radio interface unit have been detected with a fault. In contrast, a particular LED within the radio address indicator 1006 displays red if it has been detected a fault in one of the fault circuit indicators connected to the corresponding radio interface unit. As indicated above, a particular LED may be illuminated with amber if the corresponding radio interface unit is currently selected as described above. The "next" button 1010 allows a wireless device user 102 to move sequentially through each of the radio interface units that the wireless device 102 detected during its last scanning operation. The user interface of the wireless device 102 also includes a group indicator (path) 1022, which displays the status of any group of fault circuit indicators connected to the radio interface unit currently monitored by the wireless device 102. The indicator of group (path) 1022 includes a plurality of status indicators of the faulty circuit indicator, as shown, are twelve LEDs 1008. The twelve LEDs are organized in four rows, each corresponding to one of the four separate groups (paths) of circuit indicators with failure, and three columns, each corresponding to a separate phase 1014. For example, if the user were to select the radio interface screen 400e of Figures 2A and 2B, the group (road) indicators 1022 will correspond to each group of circuit indicators with fault 206a-d, while if the user wished to select the screen for radio interface 400h of the Figures 2A and 2B, the group indicators (path) 1022 will correspond to each group of circuit indicators with fault 206e-h. As stated above, each of the fault circuit indicators associated with the particular group (or path) is generally associated with different phases (e.g., phases A, B, C) and will therefore correspond to the LEDs 1008. During the operation, if a circuit indicator with a particular fault fails, the corresponding LED will be displayed green. On the contrary, if a circuit indicator with a particular fault fails, the corresponding LED will be displayed red. And if the circuit indicator with particular fault is not connected, the corresponding LED will not light. The user interface of the wireless device 102 also includes a health indicator of the system 1018, which displays information regarding the health of the radio interface unit currently selected. An implementation of the health indicator of the 1018 system is a two-color LED, which displays green when there are no problems with the radio interface unit selected, and red when the selected radio interface unit has a problem that requires maintenance. In another embodiment, a tricolor LED may be used to indicate the life of the radio interface unit system. For example, a green color may indicate that more than one year of system life remains. An amber color may indicate that less than one year of system life remains. A red color may indicate that the complete exhaustion of the life of the system is imminent. In one embodiment, the system life of the radio interface unit may equal the battery life associated with it. Figure 17B illustrates a mode of the described user interface 102 after a scanning operation has been completed, and the "next" button has been pressed to display the state of the faulty circuit indicators coupled to the interface unit radio with the address 5 (for example, 400e of Figure 2). Among others, the radio interface unit with the address 8 has reported as trouble-free, as indicated by the LED 1020 which lights green. Also, the radio interface unit with address 4 indicates that the unit is not yet installed, or the radio inside the radio interface unit It has malfunctioned, as indicated by the LED 1003 off. For purposes of illustration, the state of the fault circuit indicators coupled to the radio interface unit with the address 5 (eg, 400e of Figure 2), is displayed in the group indicator (path) 1022. This is shown in FIG. indicated by LED 1007, which is displayed as amber in the illustrated mode. All circuit indicators with fault in group or path 1 (for example, 206a of Figures 2A and 2B), group or path 2 (for example, 206b of Figures 2A and 2B), and group or path 3 (for example, example, 206c of Figure 2) are installed, and none has detected faults. Therefore, the particular LEDs corresponding to those fault circuit indicators light green. For example, LED 1016 corresponding to path 2 (for example, 206b of FIGS. 2A and 2B), phase C is illuminated green. In addition, the group indicator (path) 1022 indicates that none of the fault circuit indicators corresponding to the group or path 4 were installed (for example, 206d of Figures 2A and 2B). In the illustrated mode, this is indicated by an off LED, such as LED 1015 corresponding to group or path 4, phase C. Because fault circuit indicators corresponding to group or path 4 (206d) are shown connected in Figures 2A and 2B, this may indicate a problem in the connection of circuit indicators with failure. In Figure 17C, the status of fault circuit indicators coupled to the radio interface unit with address 5 are displayed. However, during the previous scan, various fault circuit indicators coupled to the radio interface unit with address 5 reported a failure condition. For example, LEDs 1009, 1011 and 1013 indicate that faulty circuit indicators corresponding to those LEDs reported a fault. For purposes of illustration, the fault circuit indicator associated with phase B of the group or path 2 (eg, 206b of Figure 2) is faulty, while the fault circuit indicators associated with phases A and C of the group or path 2 (for example, 206d of Figure 2) are connected and have no failure. According to one embodiment, the user interface 102 will display in the group (path) 1022 and the phase indicators 1008 the status of fault circuit indicators coupled to the radio interface unit that first reports a faulty circuit. If none of the radio interface units reports a faulty circuit, then the user interface 102 will display in the group (way) 1022 and the phase indicators 1008 the status of the indicators of fault circuit coupled to the radio interface unit with the lowest number address. For example, Figure 17D indicates that at least one fault circuit indicator coupled to the radio interface unit in address 3 reports a fault, as well as at least one fault circuit indicator coupled to the radio interface unit in the address 8. As soon as the radio interface unit with address 3 reports a fault, the status of fault circuit indicators connected to the radio interface unit associated with address 3 in the group (path) and phase will be displayed. 1022, indicators 1008. In order to observe the state of the fault circuit indicators coupled to the radio interface unit at address 8, the "next" button 1010 can be pressed enough times to move that report. During the operation, a user will focus an area with one or several groups of circuit indicators with fault installed. The user will then initiate a scanning operation using the wireless device 102 by pressing the "scan" button 1012. The radio address indicator 1006 will provide an overall view of the status of the fault circuit indicators coupled to the different radio interface units. For those interface units If the radio signals without coupled circuit indicators indicate a fault condition, the corresponding LEDs within the radio address indicator will be displayed in green. Conversely, for those radio interface units coupled to fault circuit indicators that have asserted a fault, the corresponding LEDs within the radio address indicator will be displayed in red. And for those radio interface units that are not installed or that have radio communication, the corresponding LEDs within the radio address indicator will not light. The radio interface is indicated within the radio address indicator by the corresponding LED that lights amber within the radio address indicator 1006. The user can observe the scan results for a different radio interface unit by pressing the "next" button. 1010, which selects the radio interface unit with the next lowest address, until the desired radio interface unit is selected. Using this technique, the user can determine which fault circuit indicators are asserting a fault within the range of the wireless device. The user can also inform if some Radio interface units are malfunctioning because of a low battery or for some other reason. The health indicator of the system 118 will show the health of the system of the radio interface unit that is currently displayed according to the radio address indicator 1006. And the user can determine if a faulty circuit indicator has become disconnected from the appropriate radio interface unit. All of the above can be done without accessing any of the fault circuit indicators, which can result in great time savings, particularly when faced in underground facilities. In yet another embodiment, the wireless portable device 102 may be adapted to indicate an interference or collision of signals received from more than one radio interface device. For example, the LEDs associated with the radio address indicator 1006 may flash between two colors to indicate that at least two signals have been received from the radio interface devices that have different unique serial numbers, but using the same address in the vicinity . In one embodiment, an LED associated with the radio address indicator 1006 may flash between green and amber to indicate that no radio interface unit contains a radio interface unit. failure. Alternatively, an LED associated with the radio address indicator 1006 may flash between red and amber to signal that at least one of the radio interface units contains a fault. When the display is selected for the direction in which a collision has occurred, the path 1022 and the phase indicators 1008 can alternate between indications for the data of each of the radio interface units. In yet another embodiment, a particular designation (eg, a particular serial number associated with a particular radio interface unit) may be displayed in order to differentiate between two radio interface units having the same address. In addition to the LED screen of the wireless devices, the user interface may also include other means for communicating information. Such information may include, without restriction, radio interface unit address, radio interface unit serial number, failure circuit indicator status, failure circuit indicator fault location, diagnostic parameters, firmware, health of the radio interface unit, counter information, GPS position of the radio interface unit, GPS position of the device laptop, navigation information or any other information. In one embodiment, the additional communication means may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) as shown at 1002 in Figures 17A-17D. The wireless device can also communicate data related to any detection device, different from the FCIs, as defined above. For example, the wireless device can communicate data related to water sensors, high voltage electric field, specific gravity, light, and sound; gas sensors such as CO, C02, SOx, NOx, Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOs), Fuels, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germanium, Hydrogen, Chloride hydrogen, Hydrogen cyanide, Hydrogen fluoride, Hydrogen selenide, Hydrogen sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, and the like; pressure sensors for detecting, for example, pressure in a gas pipe, water pipe, waste pipe, oil pipe, and the like; thermometers; electromagnetic radiation sensors; radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate material sensors; liquid phase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br ", Ca2 +, Cl", CN ~, Cu2 +, F ", I", K +, Na +, NH +, NO3", Pb2 +, S" (AG +), conductivity, and the like; electrical sensors such as low voltage sensors, overvoltage sensors, undercurrent sensors, overcurrent sensors, frequency sensors and the like; power factor alarms; indicators of demand overload; sensors that detect the presence of voltage of the primary system; sensors that determine if a sealed subsurface fuse has operated by detecting voltage on each side of the fuse element with loss of load current; sensors that detect the opening or closing position of a subsurface switch; voltage sensors that monitor the status of lead-acid batteries used to start the motor controller or operators for subsurface switches; power quality sensors that detect increases and falls of the primary voltage along the distribution system, and other sensors that detect the issues of power quality and send an alarm status. In another embodiment, the communication means can be a loudspeaker 1004. This loudspeaker 1004 can communicate the occurrence of a 1019 event to a user through previously recorded or synthesized messages, chirps, dog barks, beeps, or other sounds. In addition, speaker 1004 can communicate more complicated messages through Morse code. In particular, between Other messages, Morse code can be used to communicate the occurrence of a fault by a circuit indicator with monitored failure or the occurrence of low life of the system in a radio interface unit or a faulty circuit indicator. Since Morse code is well known in the art, its particulars are not described here. The above embodiments are written to use fault circuit indicators 206 as a sensing probe to indicate the presence of a predetermined condition, specifically, a faulty circuit. However, because the fault circuit indicator sends either a positive (failure) or a negative (no failure) signal to the radio interface unit 400, any detector probe having the ability to detect a predetermined condition can be used. and sending a positive or negative signal to the radio interface unit 400. For example, it may be necessary to communicate information regarding the temperature inside the underground vault 200. In this embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B, instead of using a circuit indicator with fault 206, a temperature transducer 208 can be used as the sensing probe. The temperature transducer 208 may be coupled to the article to which knowledge about the temperature needs to be communicated. He Temperature transducer 208 may be configured to send a positive signal in case the detected temperature is higher or lower than a predetermined threshold. In this way, the user would have the ability to determine if the temperature detected by the transducer 208 was higher or lower than a predetermined level, or if the temperature transducer probe were to be disconnected from the radio interface unit 400 by the display of Appropriate LED 1008. For example, if the temperature transducer 208 corresponds to phase C of group 4 (path), the user will understand the status of this probe by the display of the LED in the group (path) 4, phase C. One mode, the various LEDs can work to indicate different colors for a colorblind person. For example, if the LEDs are able to show red or green, the LED may be programmed to flash red, and remain constant for green. In this way, a user who could not distinguish otherwise between red and green, would have the ability to determine whether the LED reported a red or green color. One embodiment of the circuit diagram of the wireless device 102 is shown in Figure 17e. The reference numbers in Figure 17e correspond to the functions shown in Figures 17a-d.

The wireless device 102 of Figures 2a and 2b may further be adapted to communicate data to and from the radio interface units 400a-400h. With reference to the drawings, and again to Figure 3 in particular, a wireless device communicates with a radio interface unit connected to various power system devices (e.g., detection devices or faulty circuit indicators). The Radio Frequency Failure Circuit Indicator Monitor 400 also includes a microprocessor 310 with some amount of memory 342. The memory may be in the form of randomly accessible memory (eg, any randomly accessible type of memory, such as SRAM, DRAM, etc.). internal registers, INSTANT memory or FLASH, etc.). Note that the memory needed is not integrated into the microprocessor. The microprocessor is coupled to an RF transceiver 322, which is coupled to an antenna 202 directly or by means of a radiofrequency cable 208. The radio-frequency fault indicator circuit monitor 400 communicates with a wireless device 102. A signaling device can be used. wide range of wireless communication protocols, such as 802.11. The particular wireless communications protocol used is not significant for this invention, and as the communications protocols wireless technologies are well known in the art, such a protocol is not described. Returning to Figure 18, possible data formats for messages used to monitor and modify memory positions within the circuit indicator monitor with radio frequency failure are detailed. The "look request" message of Figure 18A is sent by the wireless device to the radiofrequency fault circuit monitor, and is used to retrieve the contents of a particular memory location or range of memory locations within the monitor circuit indicator with radio frequency failure. In the illustrated embodiment, the look request message 600 contains a header 602 with data that identifies the desired message (i.e., look request) and may include information (e.g., an identification number of the faulty indicator monitor) regarding the unit that sends and / or the unit that receives. In addition, the illustrated look request message 600 contains a field with the start address 604 of the data that the user wishes to observe, as well as the number of bytes 606 beginning at the start address 604 that the user wishes to observe. To ensure trustworthiness, the look request message may also contain a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) 608, which is used to validate the content of the message. Alternatively, the look request message may use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum or a parity bit. Figure 18B illustrates a "look response" message 700, which contains the data requested by the look request message. In the illustrated mode, the look response message contains a header 702, with information identifying the message as a look response, as well as information regarding the sending and / or receiving unit. In addition, the look response message contains a data payload 704, with the content of the requested memory locations. To ensure trustworthiness, the look response message may contain a CRC 706, which is used to validate the content of the message. Alternatively, the look response message may use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum or parity bit. The look response message may also include the state of the faulty circuit indicator monitor, which may include, for example, a result of a self-test such as memory test (RAM and / or INSTANT), life expectancy useful, the use of the battery, and the like.

Figure 18C illustrates a "insertion request in a memory location" message 800, which is used to modify memory locations in the fault circuit indicator or faulty circuit indicator monitor. In the illustrated embodiment, the insertion request message in a memory location 800 contains a header 802, with information identifying the message as an insert request in a memory location, as well as information regarding the sending unit and / or to the one who receives. In addition, the insertion request message in a memory location 800 contains a start address 804, which identifies the address or range of addresses that the user wishes to modify. The insertion request message in a memory location also contains a field with a number of bytes 806 to be modified, as well as a data field 808 that contains the bytes to be placed in the address or range of addresses. Note that another scheme to identify the location of the particular memory or range of memory locations would work equally. Finally, the insertion request message in a memory location may contain a CRC 810, which is used to validate the contents of the message. Alternatively, the insertion request message in a memory location could use a different means for validating data, such as as a check sum or parity bit. The insertion request message in a memory location could also be used to initiate a control or command in the fault circuit indicator or faulty circuit indicator monitor. In this embodiment, the insertion request message in a memory location 800 may include a start address 804 which indicates to the faulty circuit indicator or fault circuit indicator monitor that the data 808 includes an order or control. The data may indicate to the faulty circuit indicator or to the circuit indicator monitor with failure to pass any of the commands or controls available in the fault circuit indicator or faulty circuit indicator monitor, such as, for example, a energy reset (POR) resets all locks of the faulty circuit indicator to a closed state. Another example of an order or control is to require that the fault circuit indicator or circuit indicator monitor with failure go through a full FLASH and RAM self-test. The command or control may require that the fault circuit indicator or fault indicator display monitor go through a system test and write the results to a particular address, which can later be observed using an observation request. Other orders or controls may to require that the circuit fault indicator or fault circuit monitor monitor fail through a fast data transmission update, extend operating modes, decrease operating modes, or change an operating state. Figure 18D illustrates a message "insertion response in a memory location" 900, which is used for the confirmation of the insertion request message in a memory location 800. In the illustrated embodiment, the insertion request message in a memory location 900 contains a header 902, with information identifying the message as an insert response in a memory location, as well as information regarding the sending and / or receiving unit. To ensure trustworthiness, the message may also contain a CRC 904, which is used to validate the contents of the message. Alternatively, the message may use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum or parity bit. Figure 18E illustrates another "insertion response in a memory location" message 1000, which is used for confirmation of the insertion request message in a memory location 800 and indicates that insertion in a memory location was successful. In the illustrated embodiment, message 1000 contains a header 1002, with information that identifies the message as a response to insertion in a memory location, as well as information regarding the sending and / or receiving unit. The illustrated message 1000 also includes a status byte 1006, which communicates that the insertion in a memory location was successful, that is, that the requested memory change has occurred. To ensure trustworthiness, the message may also contain a CRC 1004, which is used to validate the contents of the message. Alternatively, the message may use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum or parity bit. As illustrated in Figure 19, during operation the user will first identify a particular energy system device that the user wishes to correct. For example, the power system device may be in the form of a circuit indicator, with fault or faulty circuit indicator monitor (or other power system device) 400. As shown in 500, the user then will use the .102 wireless device to specify the device and select a particular memory location or locations within the energy system device that the user wishes to observe. As shown at 502, the wireless device 102 will then transmit a message (for example, an insertion request in a memory location for the memory location of step 500) to the energy system device 400 that the user previously selected. As shown at 504, the device of the energy system object 400 will recover the location or locations of the selected memory, located there. After this, as shown at 506, the device of the power system 400 responds with a message containing the contents of the memory locations that the user wishes to observe. The wireless device 102 receives the message and displays the requested values as shown at 508. Depending on the contents of the location or memory locations that the user observed, the user may wish to modify the contents of those locations. To modify the memory contents in the energy system device 400, the user begins by choosing the address or addresses to be modified using the wireless device 102 (as shown at 510), together with the values to be placed in the locations chosen from memory (as shown in 512). The wireless device 102 then generates an insertion request message at a memory location (for example the location and the selected values), which is transmitted wirelessly to the object device as it is. shows at 514. As described herein, the insertion request message at a memory location may include an order or control for the device of the power system 400 to execute it. The energy system device 400 recognizes at 520 whether the insertion request message in a memory location includes an order or control. If the insertion request message in a memory location does not include an order or control, the energy system device 400 executes the command or control in 522. The object device can then generate a message in 524 that includes success / failure or another state that is wirelessly transmitted to the wireless device 102. The message may indicate the success of the insertion in a memory location. The wireless device 102 then displays the success / failure or other state at 518. However, if the insertion request at a memory location does not include an order or control, the microprocessor embedded within the target device then processes and executes the message of insertion request in a memory location as shown in 516. Finally, the object device may additionally generate a message in 524 that includes success / failure or another state that is transmitted wirelessly to the wireless device 102. The message may indicate success of the insertion in a memory position. The wireless device 102 subsequently displays the success / failure or other state at 518. In one embodiment, the insertion into a memory location can be followed by a look to verify that the contents of the memory were modified upon request. To achieve this look sequence, the user selects a particular location or locations of memory within the device of the power system that the user wishes to observe using the wireless device 102. Probably, this or these will be the memory locations for which it was requested the modification in the insertion in a previous memory position. Next, as shown at 502, the wireless device 102 will then transmit an insert request message at a memory location (eg, memory location of step 500) to the energy system device 400 that the user previously selected. As shown at 504, the object power system device 400 will retrieve the location or memory locations located there. Subsequently, as shown at 506, the device of the power system 400 responds with a message containing the contents of the memory locations that the user wishes to observe. The wireless device 102 receives the message and displays the contents of the message as shown at 508. The wireless device 102 can compare the contents of the requested memory locations with the requested modification and indicate to the user whether the requested modification occurred. In another modality, either the look or the insertion message in a memory position could include some data related to the fault circuit indicator or to the energy system associated with it. For example, the message could contain information related to the location of the faulty circuit indicator or to the location of a condition in the power system. In one embodiment, the message could include data regarding the GPS location of the faulty circuit indicator or the GPS location of a fault in a transmission line. In still another embodiment, a method is provided for communication between a portable terminal (e.g., wireless device 102) and radio interface unit 400 that maximizes the battery life of radio interface unit 400. The consumption of the Battery power is kept to a minimum by maintaining the radio interface unit 400 in energy saving mode most of the time. Since in one mode the transmission cycle consumes more energy than the reception cycle, the radio interface unit 400 may further be adapted to transmit data to the wireless device 102 after successful reception of a request command signal from the wireless device 102. In a similar manner, the wireless device 102 acts as a master device and the radio interface unit 400 acts as a slave device. The communication between the radio interface unit 400 and the wireless device 102 can be obtained by various wireless communication protocols. For example, suitable protocols may include frequency offset (FSK), phase shift (PSK), code division multiple access (CDMA), broad spectrum (e.g., broad-spectrum direct sequencing), or other wireless communication protocols . Accordingly, under normal conditions, i.e. without driver failure being detected, the radio interface unit is in power saving mode or a "slow mode" most of the time. She wakes up periodically to listen to an application order. When a fault is verified by an FCI, the radio interface unit 400 is in a "fast mode" and wakes up more frequently to listen for An advance request for the wireless device 102 is anticipated. FIG. 20A illustrates a request order timing diagram for the wireless device 102 according to one embodiment. This diagram specifically illustrates request orders 1102 and 1104 transmitted at alternate frequencies fl and f2 over a selected time interval 1108 at a selected request time 1110 or byte length. After each request order, the wireless device 102, as a requestor, hears a response in a response window 1112 (eg, 0.3 to 0.5 msec) before the transmission of a second command on a second frequency. A response will be sent within a defined response time 1114b almost immediately after a request for the radio interface unit 400 is received during the listening window 1106 at the corresponding frequency. The time interval 1108 is the sum of the requested time 1110 and the response window 1112. Figure 21 is a timing diagram for radio interface unit 400 according to one embodiment. This timing diagram describes periodic polling cycles 1126 of the radio interface unit 400 with listening windows 1106 and 1109 of probe packets 1122 and 1124 at alternate frequencies fl and f2. To reduce the power consumption, the radio interface unit 400 employs a poll for the carrier scheme, which detects the presence of a request command. Therefore, during the listening window 1106 or 1109, the radio interface unit 400, as a responder, verifies a signal. If the radio interface unit does not receive a signal greater than a predetermined threshold, the listening window 1106 expires and 1140 is suspended. The radio interface unit 400 then goes to the power saving mode 1100 in a rest period 1128. Figure 20B illustrates a request order timing diagram for the wireless device 102 according to one embodiment. The listening window 1106 is greater than the length of a requested first time 1102, a response window 1112, a second request time 1104, and a second response window 1112, and the response time 1114b is greater than the response window. response 1112. In this mode, the response window 1112 is shorter than the response when the wireless device 102 does not detect the presence of a response, thus the total length of the listening window 1106 is reduced. Figure 22 is a diagram of timing for the radio interface unit 400 according to a mode, wherein a request command 1102 is detected by a polling pulse 1122g at the corresponding frequency fl. The radio interface unit 400 changes from rest 1100 periodically to listen to a message such as request commands 1102 and 1104 per poll packet fl 1122 within the listening window 1106. Since the poll is at the frequency fl, the order of request 1104 on frequency f2 is ignored by poll pulse 1122c at frequency fl. The time between the polling pulses 1122a and 1122b (ie, when the radio interface unit 400 verifies the request command or the bearer is in the polling interval 1107). The polling activity ceases within the listening window 1106 once a polling pulse 1122g detects a request command 1102 for the suspension 1140 and goes to the rest period 1129. The duration of the rest period varies, depending on the state of the radio interface unit. For multiple radio interface units, the rest period for each unit may have an established program different from that of other radio interface units, or alternatively a randomized program, to decrease the probability of multiple radio interface units they will respond to a single request. There are generally three modes of rest or energy saving: 1) Slow mode, ie longer period when no condition is asserted (for example, failure); for example 3 to 5 seconds to conserve battery power; 2) Fast mode, where at least one condition (for example, a fault) is asserted to the radio interface unit. 3) Response mode in which the polling pulse of the radio interface unit detects a request order bearer with sufficient signal strength. The rest period of the response mode 1129 varies between one or two time slots 1108 from the last detected carrier 1102. The radio interface unit 400 sends back a response 1136 with a selected response time 1114b after verifying the message in the request order 1102 by checking the cyclic request verification (CRC) bits during a short delay period 1142. The response action 1130 is according to the type of request order message. Messages can also be verified by various verification methods such as, for example, a cyclic request check (CRC), checksum or parity bit validation scheme, or other methods.

Figure 23 is a timing diagram for the radio interface unit 400 according to one embodiment, wherein the radio interface unit 400 successfully detects a message 1102 by a polling pulse 1122a at the beginning of the listening window (as shown in FIG. shown in Figure 22) in the corresponding frequency fl. The polling activity ceases upon suspending 1140 and going to rest 1100 in a rest period of response mode 1131 with a duration of about one to two time intervals. Similarly, the radio interface unit 400 wakes at the end of the idle period 1131 and opens the probe pulse 1122k to a wider receiver window 1132 to capture the next command request 1102. The radio interface unit 400 sends back a response 1136 as an action taken. Figure 24 illustrates a request order message 1102a and a response message 1136a in a response action. The request order message 1102a has a predetermined number of bytes with a message size that varies, depending on whether it is in a compact mode or in an extended mode. For the compact mode, the request order message 1102a may include a preamble, a synchronization word, a request for response and CRC bits to verify validity.

For extended mode, the request order message 1102a may include additional request code, radio serial number and data packet. The response message 1136a has a message size that varies, depending on whether it is in a compact mode or in an extended mode. For the compact mode, the response pack 1136a includes a preamble, a synchronization word, an FCI radio serial number, data such as fault status, radio address, radio life, and 16 CRC bits for the verification of the validity. For extended mode, response message 1136a includes additional request code and requested data. Compact format messages may consist of a single request / response pair. Applications of this type are "disseminated" that is without an address field. Requests and response messages may also contain a predetermined number of bytes. Messages with extended request mode are used to send multiple bytes of data to a responder. The responder then responds with a confirmation, which may include data. Messages with extended response mode are used to send multiple bytes of data from a specific responder to the requestor.

The request field determines the specific meaning of the data. The synchronization word may be different from that used in the other message mode to prevent responders from listening to other message modes from detecting the message and trying to decode. In the requested message, the address field may also contain any serial number that acts as a unique address of the responder that the requestor is communicating with another identifier (eg, OxFFFFFF, OxFFFFFF) to indicate whether the request is a broadcast request and all responders must respond. In response messages, the response field may contain the responder's serial number. Figure 25 illustrates the change of communication protocol mode conserving the energy between the wireless device (requester) and the radio interface unit (responder). This communication protocol can be adapted to support various packet formats. In one embodiment, the protocol supports two packet formats: a Compact mode 1142 and an Extended mode 1144. The Compact mode 1142 is a protocol failure in which there is no address field in the request commands by the wireless device 102. Extended mode is used to send data packets larger between the wireless device 102 and the radio interface unit 400. The default compact mode request and the responder path 1142a allow the wireless device 102 to broadcast and for the radio interface unit 400 to respond to a Compact mode 1142 The Extended mode request and response path 1144a allows the wireless device 102 to send a request request, and the radio interface unit 400 responds in larger packets. In Figure 25, the wireless device 102 sends a Compact mode message with an Extended mode request command 1146 to one or more radio interface units. The radio interface units change from Compact mode 1142 to Extended mode 1144 and await the next request order in Extended mode 1144. Wireless device 102 starts sending large packet messages in Extended mode 1144 to the radio interface units, likewise the radio interface units respond large packet messages in Extended mode 1144 to wireless device 102 through path 1144a. Extended mode includes an address field in the request order package 1102a or message. The radio interface units that receive an order of requests do not direct them to these and they will not broadcast it back to listen to messages in the Compact mode. If no message is received within a predetermined time (for example, after a number of listening windows, a quantity of time, or the like), the radio interface unit may be adapted to suspend and reverse listening for messages in Compact mode 1142 through the path 1148. Figure 26 describes a mode of a communication protocol algorithm that conserves power in a radio interface unit 400. In step 1202, the radio interface unit 400 may be in three Sleep modes: Slow, Fast or Answer mode. Normal sleep mode is Slow mode. Rapid mode is when a condition (eg, failure) is asserted on the radio interface unit 400. The Response Mode is when a request command has been successfully detected and the radio interface unit is ready to receive a message from the radio interface unit. request order. In step 1204, the radio interface unit 400 is adapted to wake up and listen to messages periodically. In step 1206, the radio interface unit 400 inverts to the Compact mode in step 1208 if the radio interface unit 400 is in diagnostic mode and the listening window is suspended. Otherwise, the radio interface unit 400 detects a message or bearer for the corresponding frequency within the polling pulse window. If no message is detected, the radio interface unit returns to standstill 1202. But if a corresponding frequency bearer is detected, the radio interface unit 400 stops polling and goes to step 1211 and sleeps in the period of the radio mode. Answer, then wake up to hear it. In step 1212, the polling pulse is wider to capture or receive the next message on the corresponding frequency. In steps 1214 and 1216, a CRC validity check is carried out to confirm a successful reception of all message content. If this request message is a look request command or an insertion in a memory location, the radio interface unit 400 will switch to Extended mode. In step 1222, an action will be carried out according to the request order. For a look request command, the radio interface unit 400 will send the applicant's diagnostic data such as setting parameters, meter reading, firmware revision or some radio status included in the request order message. For an application order to insert in a memory location, the radio interface unit 400 is ready to receive new operating parameters to be written to the flash memory such as firmware reconfiguration, etc. At the end of the action, or failure or other events, the wireless device 102 returns by default to the standby mode and in the Compact mode. In another modality, also by default any early termination of the message will lead to the standby and Compact mode. In still another embodiment, the data can be communicated to the radio interface unit via an optical communication interface. With reference to the drawings and to Figure 27 in particular, an optical communication device 732 is connected to an electronic device 701. For example, in one embodiment, as will be described with respect to the following Figures 28 and 29, the electronic device can be in the form of a radio interface unit. The electronic device 701 can be designed as hardware. The electronic device 701 can be a power system, control, or monitoring system such as a fault circuit monitoring system. . The electronic device 701 may include a radio for data transmission. The electronic device 701 illustrated includes an interface unit radio station 400. Again with reference to Figure 27, the optical communication device 732 is described connected to an electronic data source. For purposes of illustration only, the embodiment shown in this Figure describes a notepad computer 738 connected to the optical communication device 732 by means of a 730 interface cable that uses a wired protocol, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface. or RS232. However, other modalities could use a short-range wireless connection between the optical communication device 732 and the notebook computer 738, a long-range wireless connection between the optical communication device 732 and a server located at a remote site (no shown), or some other mechanism for supplying data to the optical communication device. In addition, the optical communication device 732 may contain the data to be communicated in the electronic device 701. The electronic device 701 contains a circuit board (not shown). ) with at least one phototransmitter 702 as well as at least one photodetector 706. The phototransmitter 702 is placed inside the housing 707 of the electronic device 701, so that the axial line of the lens of the phototransmitter 702 is centered inside. of an aperture 404 of the housing 707. The phototransmitter is electrically coupled to an actuated circuit 718, which translates data from the microprocessor 310 to electrical pulses suitable for transmission by the phototransmitter 702. Depending on the type of circuit used, as well as the microprocessor and the phototransmitter, additional interface circuitry may be required, such as the interface circuit described in Figure 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the lens of the phototransmitter 702 is completely covered by a width 704 of semi-opaque material, which may be a sealing 514. Preferably, the electronic components are environmentally sealed within the sealing material 514. A semi-opaque material is one that is partially transmitting at a particular wavelength of radiation. The sealing material may be, but is not limited to, an epoxy-based material, a urethane-based material, a silicone-based material, an acrylic-based material, or a polyester-based material. The electronic device 701 also contains at least one photodetector 706. The photodetector 706 is positioned within the electronic device 701, so that the axial line of the lens of the photodetector 702 is centered from the aperture 404. The photodetector 706 is electrically coupled to a receiver circuit, such as a UART, which has the ability to transform the electrical output of the photodetector 706 into a form understandable by the microprocessor 310. Depending on the type of receiver circuit 716 used, as well as the microprocessor and the photodetector, additional interface circuitry may be required. In the illustrated embodiment, the lens of the photodetector 706 is completely covered by a width 704 of semi-opaque material, which may be sealing material 514. The microprocessor 310 within the electronic device 701 may require some amount of random access memory 740 and some amount of persistent storage, such as the SNAP memory 742. Note that the memory 740 and the persistent storage may reside within the microprocessor 710 or may be separated from it (not shown). In addition, different types of processing devices, such as microcontrollers or digital signal processors, can be used. It is understood that the microprocessor should be interpreted within this document as any data processing component. Some additional examples of processing devices may include programmable gate configurations per field (FPGAs), programmable logic devices, logic devices Programmable Complexes (CPLDs) and the like. Note that the system described above includes the use of housings 707, 733 for both the electrical device 701 and the optical communication device 732. However, a housing 707 is not required for any device for practicing this invention. For example, a set of circuits comprising an electronic device including a photodetector could be encapsulated within the sealing material. A second circuit set comprising an optical communication device including a phototransmitter could be encapsulated within the sealing material. The two devices could then be positioned so that the lens of the phototransmitter and the lens of the photodetector were aligned axially. As illustrated, the optical communication device 732 contains at least one photodetector 708 positioned within a housing 733. The photodetector 708 is located within the housing 733, so that its lens is close to or touches the inner wall of the housing 733, which it is constructed of a material that transmits the radiation, the photodetector 708 is refined with minimal distortion. In addition, the photodetector 708 is electrically coupled to a receiver circuit 728 that transforms electrical pulses of the photodetector in data that is transferred to the notepad computer 738 by means of the cable 730. Similarly, the optical communication device 732 contains at least one phototransmitter 710 placed inside the housing 733, so that its lens is close or touch the inner wall of the housing 733. The phototransmitter 710 is electrically coupled to an activating circuit 726, which transforms data from the notepad computer 738 into electrical pulses suitable for transmission by the phototransmitter 710. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the device electronic includes a housing 707. The housing 707 may include an extension 736 extending between the phototransmitter 702 and the photodetector 706. This extension 736 may be opaque, since it does not allow significant transmission of radiation between the phototransmitter 702 and the photodetector 706 This extension 736 can be used to block parasitic radiation between The phototransmitter 702 and the photodetector 706. In addition, in a modality where there are several photodetectors 706 within the sealing material, the extension 736 between each of the various photodetectors 706 will limit or eliminate the cross-radiation of the phototransmitters 710 of the communication device. optical 732. During the operation, a user will place the optical communication device 732 with respect to the electronic device 701 in such a way that the photodetector 706 and the phototransmitter 702 of the electronic device 701 will be optically aligned with the photodetector 708 and the photo transmitter 710 of the optical communication device 732. Using software in the computer type Notepad 738, the user will initiate communication with the electronic device 701. The data is transmitted from the notepad computer 738 to the optical communication device 732 using the interface cable 730. The powered circuit 726 of the optical communication device transforms the data from Notepad computer 738 in electric pulses which are then transformed into optical pulses by phototransmitter 710. As indicated, the data may flow in one direction, or in both directions, and this data could be related to the protocol, ie, packets error verification; or they could be substantive. The data that is transmitted may be a firmware update of the electronic device 701. This could also be settings or configuration information, or some other type of information. In addition, the data may include a control or an order. The optical pulses transmitted by the phototransmitter 710 of the optical communication device 732 are detected by the photodetector 706 of the electronic device 701. The photodetector 706 transforms the received optical pulses into electrical pulses, which are captured by receiver circuit 716. The receiver circuit 716 transforms the electrical pulses in a way understandable by the microprocessor 720, and pass the resulting data on it. The transformation of the receiver circuit 716 can take the form of serial data generation in a particular format comprised by the microprocessor 310, such as 12C, or it can take the form of parallel byte generation or word length data in a format usable by the microprocessor 310. Once the information is received, the microprocessor can store the information in persistent storage 742. Also, the data can be transmitted from the electronic device 701 to the optical communication device 732 in a manner similar to that described. previously. The driven circuit 718 of the intelligent electronic device 701 transforms the data of the microprocessor 310 into electrical pulses which are then transformed into optical pulses by the phototransmitter 702. The optical pulses transmitted by the phototransmitter 702 of the electronic device 701 are detected by the photodetector 708 of the device of optical communication 732. The photodetector 708 transforms the received optical pulses into electrical pulses which are captured by the receiver circuit 728. The receiver circuit 728 transforms the electrical pulses into a form understandable by the notepad computer 738, and passes the resulting data thereon. In one embodiment, of the present invention, the electronic device of the previous embodiments may be in the form of a radio interface unit 400 as shown in Figure 28. This radio interface unit 400 may also be communicated with a radio indicator. fault circuit or other protective device or monitoring device for use in an electrical power system. The radio interface unit 400 may include openings 404a-404d wherein the photodetectors or phototransmitters are located in the housing 406. As indicated above, the corresponding photodetectors and phototransmitters of an optical communication device may be positioned in relation to these openings 404a -404d in order to begin the transmission of data between them and through the semiopaque material contained within the housing 406. For example, as illustrated in Figure 29, an optical communication device 732 is shown which is positioned in relation to the housing 406 of the radio interface unit 400 such that it aligns with the openings in the previous figure. Additionally, locking mechanisms are shown 480a and 480b which provide for the proper positioning and securing of the optical communication device 732 to the radio interface unit 400. In another embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device of the previous embodiments may be in the form of a radio interface unit. 400 as shown in Figure 30. This radio interface unit 400 may further communicate with a faulty circuit indicator or other protective device or monitoring device for use in an electrical power system. The radio interface unit 400 may include apertures 504a-504d wherein the photodetectors or phototransmitters are placed in the housing 506. According to this embodiment, the apertures 504a-504d are formed in the sealing material 684. As described above, the corresponding photodetectors and phototransmitters 504e-504h (of Figure 32) of an optical communication device 732 can be positioned in relation to these openings 504a-504d in order to start the transmission of data between them and through the semiopaque material contained within of the housing 406. For example, as illustrated in Figures 31 and 32, an optical communication device 732 is shown which is positioned in relation to the housing 406 of the radio interface unit 400, such that it is aligned with the the openings in the previous figure. Additionally, an alignment and / or securing mechanism 680, 682 is shown which provides for the proper positioning and / or securing of the optical communication device 732 to the radio interface unit 400. The alignment and / or securing mechanism 680, 682 illustrated is a snap-fit opening 680 wherein the optical communication device 732 includes an extended portion 682 that is almost the same size, and fits snugly in the snap-fit opening 680, aligning the openings and holding in place the optical communication device 732. The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and. it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form described. The description was selected to better explain the principles of the invention and the practical application of these principles to enable other experts in the art to better utilize the invention in various embodiments and various modifications that are suitable for the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention is not limited by the specification, but that they are defined by the claims set forth below.

Claims (34)

1. System for communicating information between a detection device and a wireless device, comprising: a detection device, the detection device is adapted to monitor a condition related to an energy system; a communication member coupled to the detection device; a radio interface unit in communication with the communication member; and a wireless device in radio communication with the radio interface unit, so that the detection device communicates the information between the wireless device by means of the radio interface unit.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is a device of the energy system.

3. System according to claim 2, wherein the device of the power system is a faulty circuit indicator.

4. System according to claim 1, wherein the communication member is substantially self-contained

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is substantially self-contained.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the communication member communicates information of the power system to the radio interface unit without a mechanical connection to each other.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the communication member communicates information of the power system to the radio interface unit without an electrical connection to each other.

8. System according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is located in an underground location.

9. System according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is located in the vicinity of an air power line.

10. System according to claim 1, wherein The radio interface unit is generally submersible in water.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is constructed in general to withstand the stringent conditions.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to communicate information regarding the detection device between the detection device and the wireless device.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the detection device includes one selected from the list which consists of devices for detecting: CO, CO2, S0X, N0X, Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine dioxide, volatile organic compounds, Diborano , Ethylene oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germanium, Hydrogen, Hydrogen chloride, Hydrogen cyanide, Hydrogen fluoride, Hydrogen selenide, Hydrogen sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, pressure, temperature, radiation electromagnetic, atomic radiation, smoke, particulate matter, pH, turbidity, Br ~, Ca2 +, Cl ~, CN ", Cu2 +, F", I ", K +, Na +, NH4 +, NO3-, Pb2 +, S" (AG +), conductivity, overvoltage, low voltage, overcurrent, low current, frequency, water, high voltage electric field, specific gravity, light and sound.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to communicate information regarding the radio interface unit to the wireless device.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to receive information from the wireless device and transmit the information received from the wireless device to the detection device.

16. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to communicate information regarding the portion of the power system between the detection device and the wireless device.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to communicate information to the wireless device with respect to a connection for the communication member and the communication unit. radio interface.

18. Method for preserving the life of the battery in a radio interface unit, the radio interface unit is in communication with a detection device and has a radio to communicate with a portable terminal by transmitting and receiving radiofrequency signals therebetween, the method comprises the steps of: maintaining the radius of the radio interface unit in slow sleep mode most of the time; periodically wakes the radio from the radio interface unit to determine if a request command is received from the portable terminal; adjust the radio of the radio interface unit to a faster sleep mode if the detection device detects a selected condition; and waking the radio from the radio interface unit more frequently to determine if a request command is received from the portable terminal when the radio is set to the fastest sleep mode.

19. Method according to claim 18, wherein the detection device is a faulty circuit indicator.

20. Method according to claim 18, wherein the selected condition is a failure condition.

21. Method according to claim 18, the method comprises the additional step of: transmitting the radio of the radio interface unit only after receipt of a request order from the portable terminal.

22. Method according to claim 18, the method comprises the additional step of: returning the radio of the radio interface unit to the slow sleep mode after the early termination of any communication of the portable terminal.

23. Method according to claim 18, the method comprises the additional step of: returning the radio of the radio interface unit to the slow sleep mode at a predetermined time after the last communication of the portable terminal.

24. Method according to claim 18, the method comprises the additional step of: using multiple frequencies to communicate between the radio interface unit and the portable terminal.

25. Method according to claim 18, the method comprises the additional step of: selecting the communication protocol for the radio interface unit and the portable terminal among the group consisting of FSK, PSK, CDMA and broad spectrum.

26. Method of communication between a radio interface unit and a portable terminal, the radio interface unit has a radio to communicate with the portable terminal by transmitting and receiving radiofrequency signals therebetween, the method comprising the steps of: supplying a protocol compact communication for communications between the radio interface unit and the portable terminal; provide an extended communication protocol for communications between the radio interface unit and the portable terminal; and use the compact communications protocol as the default communication mode.

27. Method according to claim 26, the method comprises the additional step of: using the compact communications protocol to interrogate the state of the radio interface unit.

28. Method according to claim 26, the method it comprises the additional step of: changing to the extended communication protocol when the radio interface unit receives a request command from the portable terminal.

29. Method according to claim 26, the method comprises the additional step of: using the extended communication protocol to update the parameters of the microprocessor in the radio interface unit.

30. Method according to claim 26, the method comprises the additional step of: using the extended communications protocol to perform diagnostic checks.

31. Method according to claim 28, the method comprises the additional step of: restoring the communication protocol to the compact communication protocol at a predetermined time after the last communication of the portable terminal in the extended communication protocol.

32. Method according to claim 28, the method comprises the additional step of: resetting the communication protocol to the compact communication protocol after of the early termination any communication of the portable terminal in the extended communication protocol.

33. Method according to claim 26, the method comprises the additional step of: using multiple frequencies to communicate between the radio interface unit and the portable terminal.

34. Method according to claim 26, the method comprises the additional step of: selecting the communication protocol for the radio interface unit and the portable terminal among the group consisting of FSK, PSK, CDMA and broad spectrum.